How the moon affects everything from your mood and sleep to your wellness and skin

If you’ve been feeling grumpy, exhausted and generally pretty p***** off but have absolutely no idea why, the moon could well be to blame.

“Heightened emotions, mood swings and disrupted sleep have certainly been more common in 2019 and have been actively linked more commonly to the remarkable lunar sights we have been privy to,” says Alison Callan, a Global Business, Clarity and Success Coach.

“Just as the moon affects the tides, it would make some logical sense that humans are also naturally affected by the lunar presence, as we are 70% water and thus affected by the gravitational pulls.”

There are 4 main phases to be aware of with the moon: the full moon, the waxing moon, the new moon and the waning moon. Each stage, which occur approximately 7.4 days apart, shows different aspects of the moon – and each one impacts our moods differently. Here’s how…The waxing moon

The Full and New Moon are at opposite points in the lunar cycle so the waxing moon phase is when the moon is growing from the new moon to its full appearance. This type of moon can leave you feeling energetically driven to achieve, do more, be more and generally want to get things completed before the full moon sets in. “You may appear to have more energy, get more refreshed sleep and feel inclined or that it is easier to focus a little more on self care, thus making you feel a more all-round wellness,” says Alison.

The waning moon

“You may feel yourself starting to plan more, contemplate more and begin to be inward in your thoughts all in preparation for the new moon,’ says Alison.

The new moon

Alison explains how the new moon represents new beginnings, as the lunar cycle starts a brand new rotation, so you may feel called to retreat, to begin again and take time out to build your presence. “You may wish to sleep deeper, longer and be more insular with your communication, slower in your participation and connection with others. This is naturally a time for rebirth and an opportunity to do you,” she says.